If you notice that your spider crickets are not active in the winter, it is likely that you are not the only one. This pest is found in many places, including air conditioning units, potted plants, and mulch. They usually congregate in large numbers around drainage pipes, wells, and gutters. They can also live inside of air conditioning units, though they prefer outdoor food sources. So, how do you find them?

Camelback crickets are not true crickets

Camelback crickets are a common pest around the home. They are attracted to damp places where they can find food and breeding sites. They do not bite people, but their feces can stain the walls. They can also cause serious damage to clothing, lawn furniture fabric, and walls. If you have a camel cricket problem, it’s important to get rid of it as soon as possible.

They are an invading species

Invading species – spider crickets – are common in the United States. Their population is more than ten times larger than that of human beings. These creatures are nocturnal and tend to congregate in damp areas. Their preferred habitats include basements, crawl spaces, and sheds. The spider cricket population is most active in the summer and fall when it is most likely to invade a home or other structure.

They are harmless

While spider crickets aren’t harmful to humans, they are known to gnaw on plants, clothing, and cardboard. During the winter, they will cluster in damp, dark places. You can keep them away by making sure the house is dry. But you can’t keep them out completely. If you see a cricket in your home, don’t panic. This pest isn’t dangerous.

They emit an odor to attract a mate

Even though spider crickets do not produce the characteristic chirping sound, they do emit an odor to attract a mates. This odor is not harmful to humans but can be disturbing to people with bug phobia. Spider crickets don’t have wings and can jump very high. In fact, their chirping sound is similar to that of popcorn popping. This is an important characteristic to know if you suspect spider crickets are in your home.

They eat fungi

Insects with a distinctive appearance are known as spider crickets, and they can be found in many areas of your home, including garages, basements, and crawl spaces. Though not harmful to humans, they are omnivorous and often feed on fungi and plant matter. They have the unfortunate habit of jumping toward startled people, and this behavior should not be tolerated. Spider crickets are best controlled by keeping your home dry and free of any standing water, especially during the winter.

They chew up carpets

If you have noticed that your home is full of spider crickets, it may be time to get rid of them. Spider crickets tend to live in dark, damp areas. Try limiting moisture in these areas and minimizing clutter in your home. Exterminators may be necessary if the infestation is beyond your abilities to handle. Spider crickets can eat your personal belongings and jump at you when you approach. They like damp places and will invade your home, so it is best to keep basements and crawlspaces dry and free of clutter.

They gnaw on skin

The spider cricket is a common pest in our homes. The nocturnal insects look like a shrimp or wolf spider with long legs. While they don’t have fangs, they do have mandibles and will chew on human skin if they land. Spider crickets can jump a few feet and are highly able to reach and gnaw on humans. They are not harmful, but they can be extremely annoying.